Amida Malvern

Tuesday, 31 January 2017

Spend a week learning to trust, 'lean in' and be held on this Pureland Buddhist retreat led by priests with the Amida Order: Rev. Kaspalita, Rev. Jnanamati and Rev. Satyavani.

The perfect opportunity to deepen your connection the sacred. Dharmavidya is not running any retreats in France this year, so come and join us at this beautiful location in the UK.

This retreat will include silent contemplation, chanting, personal enquiry through the creative process (including writing, poetry and visual art), group sharing and dharma talks. The retreat is open to all - Pure Land Buddhists, Buddhists from other traditions or other spiritual practitioners interested in learning experientially about the Pure Land way and a more faith-based tradition of Buddhism.

This retreat is an opportunity to enter more deeply into the Pure Land practices. Dharmavidya has referred to Pure Land Buddhism as refuge Buddhism, and explains that rather than being a tradition that encourages the cultivation of practice Pure Land invites us, over time, to deepen our refuge. The various practices we engage in are devotional and are in this context ways of deepening our refuge in Amida Buddha. They are also ways of opening to the grace of tariki or Other Power of the Buddhas.

Venue: The retreat will be held at Holland House near Evesham in Worcestershire, a beautiful retreat centre with lovely gardens with a great kitchen. The cost includes all accomodation, delicious food and dana for the retreat leaders.

Cost: A £40 deposit is required to book your space - this deposit is non-refundable. The earlybird fee (until end Feb 2017) is £365, after this the fee £395. Unwaged fee £345. Payment by installments is also an option. For details of how to pay your deposit and secure your place, contact Satya: satya@satyarobyn.comPhone 01684 572444.

Namo Amida Bu

The Retreat LeadersRev. Kaspalita runs the Amida Mandala Buddhist Temple in Malvern with his wife Satya. He is a practising psychotherapist and offers mindfulness classes as a part of Mindfully Whole. He co-runs Writing Our Way Home, a mindful writing company, with Satya.

Rev. Jnanamati is a Pureland Buddhist Priest with the Amida Order. He works as an art therapist and also does chaplaincy work in health care settings. He is the Amida-Shu representative for the Worcestershire Interfaith Network.

Rev. Satyavani is a Pureland Buddhist Priest, psychotherapist in private practice and a writer. She co-authored 'Just As You Are: Buddhism for Foolish Beings' with Kaspa and has written several novels.

Thursday, 01 September 2016

Meet Poppet, our newly three-legged bunny.Kaspa and I enjoyed our two week break and at the end of our first day back, a busy volunteer day, I went to feed the much-loved temple bunnies with 3 year old Felix.

It took me a while to notice that Poppet wasn’t coming out of the hutch. When I looked closer I saw the blood, and that her back leg was at a horrible angle underneath her. I won’t go into details but when I picked her up it was a traumatic sight. We think she caught her leg in a slatted chair – I still can’t understand how she broke it so badly.

Felix was amazing and ran to get a grown-up as fast as he could. We rushed off to the emergency out-of-hours vet in Worcester, trying to balance speed with not bumping her around too much. I couldn’t imagine how much pain she was in. The vet said she’d keep her comfortable overnight and then we could take her to our own vet in the morning.

Rabbits are more difficult to treat medically, both because of their size and digestive systems, and because vets don’t get as much experience as they do with cats and dogs. We did some hasty Googling that evening and I spent the night worrying. Would she survive the shock? The anaesthetic? Would they save her leg? What would happen if not?

The next day we said goodbye to her at 10am and waited. It was 3.30pm when the vet called. She’d made it through the op, was eating well, and by 5pm we were asked to come and pick her up.

She’s currently in a temporary pen in the living room with her friend Peter for company (I just went in to check on them – Peter is licking Poppet’s head, and Fatty our old cat is hanging out nearby). She’s already managing to hop around remarkably well, and the prognosis is good.

Whilst waiting for the news I couldn’t concentrate on anything and so I had lots of time to look at the beautiful blue sky and contemplate. Life is so short and unpredictable. Most (all?) of the discomfort I experienced from the time we found Poppet injured was because I wanted thing to be different than they were, and I wanted to be in control. I wasn’t in control of how far away the vets were, or whether or not she was going to stop breathing on the journey. I wasn’t in control of whether she came round after her operation. Of course, I manipulated the situation as much as I could – barking orders at poor Kaspa, interrogating the vet about her surgical skills, beating myself up for leaving the chair in the rabbit’s enclosure – but none of these things made any substantial difference to the outcome.

By the grace of the Buddhas, Poppet has been allowed some more time alive – to flop over and roll in the sunshine, to race up and down the grass, and to snuggle under Peter’s belly.

It’s often in the midst of crisis that we realise how much we take refuge in the things we can’t control. Remembering this, I might do better during the next crisis, but I probably won’t. Instead I can relax, knowing that the Buddhas accept me just as I am, and give thanks. Thanks to the overnight emergency nurse who found & fed Poppet dandelion leaves. Thanks to our vet for her kindness. Thanks to the insurance company for paying most of the £750 it cost. Thanks to Felix for staying calm. Thanks to the supportive friends, the car, the Chinese takeaway we had at the end of a long day, the people who grew the carrot Poppet just munched…

Wednesday, 25 November 2015

'Just As You Are: Buddhism for Foolish Beings'

"Just As You Are: Buddhism for Foolish Beings' is for anyone who wants to live a good life but is tired of endlessly trying to perfect themselves.

Pureland Buddhism takes a realistic view of our foolish natures as human beings, and offers us an alternative to the ‘do it yourself’ self-help movement. With anecdotes of temple life and instructions for simple Pureland practices, the authors introduce us to this ancient and unique tradition of Buddhism and show us how it can make a powerful difference to our everyday lives.

Covering topics such as trust, overcoming suffering, grace, being kind and self-care, the book also contains the voices of different Pureland Buddhists speaking of their own diverse experiences. This book shows us how we are all loveable just as we are, and that understanding this is the key to deep and lasting change.

"This book will not give you a do-it-by-numbers self-help, pull-yourself-up-by-your-own-effort ladder to climb. Here two good people have written a lovely book about faith and practice, which explains their own journey and many aspects of Pureland Buddhism in terms that are easy to understand. It will remind you of the love that is already there and the refuge that is already at hand. It will invite you to celebrate it and to do so in company with others similarly inspired. In doing so, it will welcome you home to a place of peace where all is completely assured. A wonderful contribution to the growth of the Buddhist community."

"What the authors have done in this book is show the way toward attentive compassion - compassion towards others but also, and maybe more importantly, towards oneself. I laughed out loud at the idea of the validation of our foolish, bombu nature.

The introduction to daily practice is succinct and blessedly clear. The book uses the upaya of personal experience to draw one in to the value and meaning of spiritual experience, and then lays out the actual day-to-day practice itself so that a reader will know exactly what they are getting into and why. This is so useful.

I have a statue of the seated Buddha on my altar. In his left hand he holds the fire of the Dharma, as though to say atta dipa, you are the light itself. His right hand is raised, palm out, in the universal gesture of peace, saying don’t be afraid. The authors also hold up their hands, palms out, saying to readers, don’t be afraid. It’s okay. There is no distance between us."

~ Terrance Keenan, Zen Monk, Artist and Writer

"This is a lovely, gentle introduction to a lesser known (in the west) Buddhist tradition. It gives a user friendly outline of what Pureland Buddhism is and a realistic insight into the lifestyle of devotional religion. The authors use their experience to carry a message of compassion and a deep insight into Human nature as foundational aspects of a revolutionary way of life. An essential read for the Buddhist who wants to look beyond the dogma to the heart of the teaching. Namo Amida Bu!" ~ Adam Dunsby

"An enjoyable and understandable read. Very open, honest, and realistic. Covering day to day temple life and daily experiences, and shared moments of real insight. Both writers and contributors capture the essence of what is unique in Pureland Buddhism and explain simply the various methods of practice. A very positive and helpful book with a feeling of real gratitude running throughout." ~ Stan

"This is a very accessible introduction to Pureland Buddhism and an open account of life in a temple. Factual information is clear and never dry, and this alternates with personal experiences which are always honest. The overall impression is of warmth and acceptance - a must read for Buddhists, non Buddhists and the spiritually curious."~ Amazon customer

"Great introduction to the lesser known Pureland Buddhist tradition. Warm words for the longing soul. If you are a seeker and curious about the different and rich approaches Buddhism offer, this one is for you. " ~ Amazon customer

***

Reverend Kaspalita and Reverend Satyavani are ordained Priests with the Amida-Shu and they run a Pureland temple in Malvern in the UK.

They both work as psychotherapists and are interested in building local community and in teaching Buddhism that improves the lives of ordinary people like you and me.

***

Vicky Chesterton

We have heard the sad news that Vicky has died. She was living with her son in Vienna. She stayed alongside the Amida community when they were based at The Buddhist House in Narborough. Loving memories from all who knew her.

Wednesday, 04 November 2015

News of Amida Events to celebrate Bodhi Day

Amazingly, it'll soon be December, during which many spiritual communities hold their Celebrations of Light. Here, in the Northern Hemisphere, the days are shortening and, as our ancient ancestors have done for thousands of years, we all long for the return of light. For Pureland Buddhists, Amida is the Buddha of Infinite Light and, however gloomy and dark it may seem, Amida's Light is always shining. It's good to join in person or in spirit with our fellows as we bring this to mind.

Bodhi Day, which marks the Enlightenment of the Buddha, is celebrated on December 8th each year. It is traditional to hold a retreat at this time. Always the most important event in the Amida calendar, the Bodhi Retreat has grown in significance as the Amida-shu and the Amida Order have developed.

Every two years, we hold an international retreat, which will include periods of continuous chanting of the nembutsu, which we know, from past experience, has a wonderful effect upon participants. The retreat may also include teachings, seminars, silent periods, Amidist ceremonial, and opportunities for personal sharing.

During this time the Order holds ordinations, commitment ceremonies and renewals of refuge, membership and precepts.

Amida Mandala, Malvern, UK

International Bodhi Retreat 2015 with Dharmavidya David Brazier

Monday 7th – Sunday 13th December

Dharmavidya:"The Essential Meaning of Nembutsu: Nothing to Hide

I take refuge in the unimpeded light. The “I” that seeks refuge and the light that illuminates mutually interpenetrate. There is no part of oneself that is not illuminated, therefore there is nothing to hide. The light is unimpeded, therefore there is nothing to be ashamed of. The light is present in all worlds, therefore there is nowhere to go. Being present in all worlds, liberation is freely available. Caught up in nonsense, life passes in vain, yet on the very pathway to disaster, the Buddha awaits, catching us as we fall. In this retreat we shall reflect upon the essential, secret meaning of nembutsu faith and practice: the purity of heart that is like a lost diamond that Buddha retrieves from the bottom of a muddy pool."

9am - 7pm. at the home of Prajna and James. We will chant and meditate 9am-4pm. conduct a Vow ceremony at 4:30pm and host a festive potluck at 5:30pm. Vows will include Lay Order (Mitra) membership, Amida-shu admission, and the 5 Refuges.:: website:: registration*****

Amida Northeast, Durham, UK

Saturday 5th December 10am - 4pm

Kuvalaya: "The 5th of December will be our northern Bodhi Day. I'm delighted to say that Sujatin will travel down from Perth and join us for the day! There will be chanting, Pureland practice and teaching, and a ceremony." For further details, if you are in the Durham or NE England area, :: contact Kuvalaya*****

Amida Scotland Bodhi Day in Perth

Tuesday 8th December 7 pm - 9 pm

Delighted that we will be celebrating Bodhi Day in 'The Fair City' of Perth, for the first time. During the evening there will be Pureland Sutra reading, a period of extended nembutsu chanting, renewal of vows, warm community and, of course, seasonal refreshments.

her activist experiencesand answers questions from

retreatants and theMalvern sangha:

Freedom

* Among the ordained members of the Amida Order there are two ordination tracks. Those following the ministry track tend to live settled lives developing Dharma activities in their area, performing religious services, and getting socially engaged amidst their local population. Those following the amitarya track live mobile lives in mutually supportive community more like the traditional Buddhist friar (bhikshu).

Sunday, 05 July 2015

Satyavani

Two weeks in France

For those of you who couldn't join us, I wanted to give you all a taste of our two weeks of retreat in Bessait-Le-Fromental at Dharmavidya's hermitage, Eleusis. We were an international bunch - the group was Ganendra (Spain), Modgala, Kaspa, Satya, Adam and Caroline (UK), Prajna and James (Canada), Jan (Hawaii), and Maitrisimha, Annetta, and Floor and Jnanamati (the Hague).

Our first week was a Nei Quan retreat and Dharmavidya asked us to pay attention to any thoughts and feelings which arose during practice or times writing in our journals, chasing them and examining them rather than letting them go. We gave daily 'reports' of our findings to Dharmavidya in front of the group which was helpful for individuals and stimulated thought for the rest of the group. Many of us felt great personal shifts, held by Dharmavidya, the daily practice, the group and the beautiful setting.

The second week was the Order retreat which coincided with a heatwave and so we held most of our meetings in the shade under the walnut tree rather than in the stifling attic room! We heard reports of Amida sanghas in India, Malvern, London, Canada, the Hague, Belgium and Spain. The Order retreat is also a time when those who run groups can get support from others in a similar position, and share ideas and experiences.

We were cooked delicious food by Jnanamati, Adam and Floor, and enjoyed much good conversation over the washing up table, going on walks and gathered by the wall in the evening with a cup of chicory. We also enjoyed a swim!

Maybe we'll see you next year... If you'd like to visit before then to volunteer for Dharmavidya in the house or garden, get in touch with Jnanamati for more information.

Namo Amida Bu. Reverend Satyavani, secretary for the Order *****

Dates for your Diary - retreats led by Dharmavidya

There are three opportunities to attend a retreat led Dharmavidya over the coming year - do put them in your diaries.

Friday, 17 April 2015

The First Four and a Half MonthsAmida Mandala, Malvern, UK

Reverend Satyavani: We have now been resident in Amida Mandala in Malvern for four and a half months. Is that all? It feels like we've had at least a year's worth of experiences! We now have four residents, Adam, Brian, Steve and James, and are currently looking for one more. We are into a new routine of running three services and one listening circle a week, and the occasional chanting day, retreat day etc. We have had a new wave of sangha members since moving and some of these are now settling into the community and practice having attended regularly since we arrived. Adam has now run his first services and has also started a monthly book study group. Kaspa and I have given talks to schools, students from theological college, and the Rotary club, and met with interfaith ministers, local politicians, neighbours...

A recent unexpected project has been major work on the garden, led by a new sangha member and volunteer, Ron. With the help of our volunteers he has already taken down several big cypresses to clear space in the garden and let in light to us and to our neighbours. We have plans for a meditation hut! Although we are taken up with the big list of things-to-be-done here, we feel connected to and supported by the wider sangha both in the UK and beyond, and of course by Dharmavidya. We are looking forward to another visit from Jnanamati and we are in very regular contact with the Trust who are behind us (and in front of us!) all the way. I especially feel this connection when we have services and retreat days. You all have a space in the shrine room!

Over the rest of the year we hope to continue work on the garden and continue with work that needs to be done to the house - some expensive gable re-rendering, and a new boiler. We're starting up a fundraising group soon and you may hear from us soon about that.

We hope that you keep in touch with us here - through our newsletter, our website www.amidamandala.com, or by coming and visiting us. We feel very privileged to be the ones who are currently looking after this special building. We are blessed.

Namo Amida Bu!

Reverend Kaspalita:

The buying and moving in process, which seemed to take a lifetime in itself, now seems like another lifetime away. As I write this the morning sun is streaming in through our windows, and I can hear the sound of Ron, who Satya mentioned above, working in the garden.

Today I have done some writing, I have taught a meditation class, and been talking to some contractors about taking a bathroom out of what was one of the old B&B bedrooms, to make it into a more useable space. I’ve had a chat with a couple of residents, and this afternoon I’ll be seeing my own private clients, before leading our Wednesday evening service (It’s my turn this week). After service this evening, we’ll have a short stone passing, which we do once a month.

This is a typical day, a mix of my own private work and work for the Temple, either with a management hat on or a priests hat on, so to speak, sometimes both at once. It feels like we are just entering into a new phase here, the first couple of months new people were coming and going and we were settling in ourselves. Now some of those new people are beginning to feel like old friends, and Satya and I are feeling much more settled ourselves. How lucky we are to have been gifted such a space, and such a community. It is a grace.

Tuesday, 03 February 2015

We currently have a room free upstairs in our Pureland Buddhist temple Amida Mandala (:: photo) for a fourth resident.

We are looking for someone quite specific - someone who will be happy with our house rules (no meat, no alcohol), broadly sympathetic with our spiritual aims, and robust enough to deal with the building's use as a (sometimes busy) temple. We will suggest a month's trial (for both of us) for any potential residents.

The room is smallish and would suit a single person. It has a bath and toilet ensuite. We are charging £320 pcm including all bills and a weekly community meal on Friday nights. There are generous communal spaces - a shrine room, a dining room, a big kitchen, a living room and a library (and a beautiful garden). Our other residents Steve, Adam & James are all settled in now and enjoying living here, as are we. We also have three cats which roam the house!

If you or anyone you know might be interested in talking further (please do forward this email to your friends), do let us know - hello@amidamandala.com.

I'm an Acharya (a senior teacher) with the Order of Amida Buddha, which is a Pureland Buddhist Order. I'm a minister, teach on-line and hold Pureland Buddhist sangha gatherings in Perth, Scotland. I mainly write about Buddhist matters and share the teachings of the Head of our Order, Dharmavidya David Brazier